Steven Hook, Methamphetamine Distribution Conspiracy, Missouri 2019

SPRINGFIELD, MO – A cross-country drug run ended abruptly on Interstate 44, and now Steven Hook, 38, of Indiana, and Tallisha R. Malone, also known as Tallisha Washington, 39, are facing serious federal charges. A federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment today, accusing the pair of conspiring to distribute a massive quantity of methamphetamine.

The indictment stems from a June 3, 2019, traffic stop where a Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper pulled over a vehicle driven by Hook, with Malone as a passenger, on eastbound I-44. The initial stop was for speeding, but what the trooper uncovered was far more sinister than a simple traffic violation. A search of the vehicle revealed a hidden stash of methamphetamine, neatly packaged and ready for distribution.

According to court documents, the trooper discovered three bundles of meth in a small luggage bag. But the haul didn’t stop there. Hidden within bedding inside two plastic bags were a staggering 33 more bundles of methamphetamine. The total amount allegedly exceeds 500 grams, placing Hook and Malone in a significantly more serious category of drug trafficking.

Malone reportedly admitted to renting the vehicle in Los Angeles, California, and driving to Las Vegas, Nevada, where she met up with Hook. Their alleged mission? To transport the vehicle – and its illicit cargo – to Chicago, Illinois, and hand it off to another individual. The plan, however, hit a roadblock just across the state line in Missouri.

The indictment charges Hook and Malone with conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine in Greene County, Missouri, between May 31, 2019, and June 3, 2019. They are also charged with possession of 500 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute on June 3, 2019. This isn’t the first legal action against the pair; the indictment replaces a criminal complaint originally filed in 2019.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Abram McGull II is prosecuting the case. The investigation was a joint effort between the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Missouri State Highway Patrol. It’s crucial to remember that these are merely accusations at this point. The burden of proof lies with the prosecution, and Hook and Malone are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a federal court of law. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it develops.

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